Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk: A Budget-Friendly Stay Near Santa Cruz’s Heart

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Nestled in the vibrant Santa Cruz City Center at 500 Riverside Avenue, Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk offers an affordable yet comfortable escape for travelers seeking proximity to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. With an average room price significantly lower than the city’s average, this 2-star hotel provides a compelling option for those looking to enjoy the coastal charm without breaking the bank.
Guests are greeted with the convenience of 24-hour front desk service, ensuring assistance is always at hand. The hotel’s location is a mere 840 meters from the beach, making it a prime spot for those wishing to enjoy the Pacific coastline, the Boardwalk’s amusement rides, and the myriad of local dining options. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas keeps you connected, while complimentary parking eases the hassle for those arriving by car.
The facilities at Torch Lite Inn cater to a variety of needs. A golf course within 3 kilometers offers leisure activities for sports enthusiasts, and family rooms make it welcoming for groups of all sizes. While there isn’t an on-site restaurant, the hotel compensates with a vending machine for quick snacks and drinks. The absence of a pool is noted, but the proximity to the beach offers a natural alternative for swimming and sunbathing.
Accommodation at Torch Lite Inn includes a range of room types from King Rooms with a single queen bed to Double Rooms with two queen beds, providing options for different group sizes and preferences. Guests have appreciated the cleanliness of the rooms, scoring it at 7.7 out of 10, and the overall value for money is rated at 7.1, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to providing affordable luxury.
However, it’s worth noting some guests have highlighted areas for improvement. Noise can be an issue for upper-level rooms due to the loudness of the access door, and there have been reports of maintenance issues like stains on linens and dust in less conspicuous areas. Despite these, the hotel’s recent renovations in some rooms have been well-received, offering a clean, modern touch.
For transportation, the hotel is well-served by local bus stops and train stations, making it accessible for those without personal vehicles. Swift Halt bus stop is nearby for local travel, while the Santa Cruz Metro Station helps connect visitors to broader destinations.
Dining around Torch Lite Inn is an adventure in itself. From Italian at Ristorante Italiano to Brazilian flavors at Cafe Brasil, and from upscale farm-to-table at Gabriella Cafe to casual beach picnics from The Picnic Basket, the culinary scene caters to all tastes. The nearby Farmers Market adds to the local experience with fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Shopping enthusiasts can explore Pacific Garden Mall and Santa Cruz Downtown, with unique boutiques like DIG gardens and specialty shops like The True Olive Connection. For those looking to indulge in more, Pacific Avenue offers a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.
The hotel’s policies are family-friendly, allowing children under 8 to stay for free when using existing bedding, which is a significant plus for budget-conscious families. Check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out by 11:00 AM, providing ample time to enjoy Santa Cruz’s attractions.
Overall, Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk stands out as a cost-effective choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Santa Cruz’s vibrant community, with its affordable rates, central location, and the promise of a delightful stay by the beach. However, potential guests should be mindful of the minor drawbacks mentioned by some visitors to ensure expectations align with reality.
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Services, Amenities, and Facilities at Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk
Accommodation Services
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Room Types: The hotel offers a variety of room options including King Rooms, Double Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and Signature Rooms, accommodating different needs with sizes ranging from 26 to 28 square meters. Each room includes amenities like a shower and bathtub, and some are designated as non-smoking.
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Check-in/Check-out: Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM, providing flexibility for guests to enjoy their stay.
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Family-Friendly: Children aged 0-7 can stay for free using existing bedding, making it an attractive option for families.
Amenities
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Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and public areas, ensuring guests can stay connected.
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Parking: Complimentary car park facilities are provided, which is a significant convenience for travelers with vehicles.
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Laundry Service: Guests can utilize the laundry services offered by the hotel to keep their clothes fresh during their stay.
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Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping ensures rooms remain clean and tidy, with guests scoring cleanliness at 7.7 out of 10.
Facilities
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Front Desk: A 24-hour front desk service is available for any assistance or inquiries.
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Dining: While there’s no on-site restaurant, a vending machine offers snacks and beverages. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided for guests.
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Safety and Cleanliness: The hotel employs measures like anti-viral cleaning products, cashless payment services, and physical distancing to ensure safety.
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Convenience: Features include express check-in/out, air conditioning in public areas, and facilities for disabled guests.
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Recreation: Nearby attractions include a golf course within 3 km, and the hotel’s location is ideal for accessing the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and other local landmarks.
Location and Accessibility
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Proximity to Attractions: Just 840 meters from the beach, the hotel’s location scores a 7.2, praised for its convenience to the boardwalk and city center activities.
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Public Transport: Close to Swift Halt bus stop and Santa Cruz Metro Station, facilitating easy exploration of the city or trips to nearby areas.
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Cultural and Shopping: The hotel is near Pacific Avenue, known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Value and Guest Experience
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Value for Money: With an average room price significantly lower than Santa Cruz’s average, guests commend the hotel for its affordability, rated at 7.1 for value.
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Guest Reviews: Generally positive, with comments on the hotel’s convenience, cleanliness, and staff friendliness, though some guests have noted issues like noise and outdated amenities.
The Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk offers a blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability, making it a solid choice for travelers looking to enjoy Santa Cruz’s offerings without stretching their budget.
Exploring Santa Cruz: Attractions and Amenities Near Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk
Tourist Attractions
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Just 840 meters from the hotel, this iconic amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster. It’s an ideal spot for family entertainment or a fun day out by the sea.
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Wilder Ranch State Park: A short drive away, this park spans over 7,000 acres and features rugged cliffs, trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, showcasing the natural beauty and historical agricultural past of the region.
Landmarks
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Riverside Gardens Park (210 m): A serene spot for relaxation or a picnic, close to the hotel.
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Poet’s Park (320 m): Known for its literary-themed installations, offering a cultural touch to the area.
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La Plaza Market (360 m): A local landmark where visitors can experience the community’s daily life and local produce.
Restaurants
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Ristorante Italiano: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with classic pasta and pizza.
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Cafe Brasil: Offers Brazilian specialties like feijoada and coxinha.
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Gabriella Cafe: Known for its farm-to-table approach, providing fresh, seasonal dishes.
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The Picnic Basket: Perfect for grabbing a gourmet sandwich or salad for a beach picnic.
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De La Hacienda Taqueria and Taqueria La Cabana: Serve delicious Mexican food for a taste of authentic tacos and burritos.
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Sawasdee By The Sea: Specializes in traditional Thai flavors.
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Himalayan Kitchen and Aroma India Bistro: Offer a variety of Nepalese, Indian, and Himalayan dishes.
Entertainment and Culture
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Santa Cruz City Center: The hotel is right in the heart of this vibrant area, where you can explore Pacific Avenue for live music venues, theaters like the Rio Theatre, and a rich nightlife scene.
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Farmers Market: A cultural experience and a place to find fresh local produce, enhancing your culinary adventure.
Shopping
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Pacific Garden Mall: A shopping haven with trendy boutiques and specialty stores for a unique shopping experience.
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DIG gardens: Great for those interested in gardening supplies and plants.
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Santa Cruz Downtown: Offers a mix of local and well-known brands for a varied shopping trip.
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A Brighter World and The True Olive Connection: For home decor and gourmet food items, respectively.
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World of Stones and Mystics: A treasure trove for those interested in crystals and spiritual items.
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Patagonia Outlet Store: For outdoor enthusiasts looking for quality gear at discounted prices.
Convenience and Accessibility
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Public Transport: The Swift Halt bus stop and Santa Cruz Metro Station are within walking distance, providing easy access to explore more of Santa Cruz or connect to other cities in California.
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Parking: Free parking is available, making visits to local attractions more convenient for those driving.
The Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk is strategically located to offer guests an array of activities and experiences right at their doorstep, from cultural immersion to outdoor adventures, all while enjoying the laid-back charm of Santa Cruz.
FAQs for Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk:
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What is the average cost to stay at Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk?
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The average room price at Torch Lite Inn is approximately $164, which offers good value for money compared to the Santa Cruz average of $224.
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What are the check-in and check-out times at the hotel?
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Check-in at Torch Lite Inn begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM.
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How can I get to Torch Lite Inn from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)?
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From SJC, you can rent a car and drive, which takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, shuttle services are available for direct transportation to Santa Cruz City Center.
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What transportation options are available from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to the hotel?
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You can rent a car and take the scenic Highway 1 route to reach the hotel, which would take around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering beautiful coastal views along the way.
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Does Torch Lite Inn provide an option for contactless check-in and check-out?
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Yes, the hotel offers an express check-in/check-out service, which includes contactless options for your convenience.
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What attractions are nearby and within walking distance from Torch Lite Inn?
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The hotel is just 840 meters from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Other nearby landmarks include Riverside Gardens Park (210 m), Poet’s Park (320 m), and La Plaza Market (360 m).
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Is there free parking available at the hotel?
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Yes, Torch Lite Inn provides complimentary parking, making it very convenient for guests with vehicles.
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Can I book a room for a child under 7 years old at no extra cost?
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Yes, children from 0 to 7 years old can stay for free when using existing bedding.
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What dining options are available around Torch Lite Inn?
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There’s a diverse selection including Ristorante Italiano for Italian, Cafe Brasil for Brazilian cuisine, Gabriella Cafe for farm-to-table dining, and many more local restaurants offering Mexican, Thai, and other international cuisines.
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What amenities does Torch Lite Inn offer to make my stay convenient?
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The hotel provides free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and a vending machine for snacks and drinks. Additionally, there’s a complimentary continental breakfast for guests.
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Torch Lite Inn 2-Star Hotel in Santa Cruz >> No Deposit Hotel Deals. Book this Hotel Here. View Our Low Price Discounts from 10 to 75% OFF